Runners clock up major boost for charity at annual Asda Foundation Hull 10K

Thousands crossed the finish line of the Asda Foundation Hull 10K today – achieving a personal goal and running up a major boost for good causes.

It was the eighth running of the popular 10K which since its 2010 launch has grown into one of East Yorkshire biggest charity road races.

Large crowds of spectators helped create a fantastic atmosphere and gave the participants great encouragement as they made their way round the flat course, which took in the waterfront, marina and The Deep.

Many runners were taking part for a good cause of their own choice or for one of the event’s partner charities which were the Jane Tomlinson Appeal, Hull and East Riding (HER) Breast Friends, Candlelighters, Dove House Hospice, Macmillan Cancer Support, Special Stars Foundation, Jerry Green Dogs Rescue, Child Dynamix and Hull Homeless Community Project.

The race was won by Danny Hallam who crossed the finish line in a time of 33mins 09secs. Ben Sadowyj took second place in 33mins 25secs with Arron Larkin third in 33mins 49secs.

Sophie Lee was the first woman home in 37mins 45secs followed by Laura Dran who clocked 40mins 07secs for second spot and Hannah Davis who took third in 40mins 35secs.

While not being the fastest, the 5th Hull Marching Band were still aiming to break records – setting the world record for a marching band finishing a 10K run.

The team, led by Vicki Brownlee, were aiming to beat their previous time of 1hr 47 minutes – and raise £500 for the band’s minibus and the Jane Tomlinson Appeal. They completed the course in 1hr 40 mins and 20 secs.

Other participants included: a group of mums from Brough running in memory of their friend, mother of two Caroline Templeman, who died of lung cancer in January; members of Cherry Burton Cricket Club, who ran in full whites in memory of late Chairman Ashley Godber, who tragically died in a road accident last month; and Army veteran Chris Ashton, who suffered devastating injuries after being hit by a grenade while serving in conflict-hit Iraq in 2006, who took part in a wheelchair for Hull 4 Heroes.

Asda Foundation Senior Manager Julie Ward said: “Once again this wonderful event lived up to all expectations. The atmosphere was outstanding and it was inspiring to see so many people taking on the challenge to raise money for some excellent causes.

“Well done to everyone involved, particularly the volunteers whose efforts contribute so much to the event’s success.”

Among those taking part were hundreds of businessmen and women competing in the Hull 10K Corporate Challenge, in which companies, sports clubs and other organisations were out to lift the title of fastest team in the race. The results of that challenge will be revealed later.

The run was organised by Run For All and forms part of the legacy of the late Jane Tomlinson who, despite being diagnosed with terminal cancer, completed a series of gruelling challenges and raised nearly £2m for charity.

Lynne Preston, Run For All Events Manager, said: “We are delighted with the success of today’s run and a massive thank you to everyone who took part or volunteered their time – we could not do it without you.”

The event is part of the successful Asda Foundation 10K series which includes runs in Lincoln, Nottingham, Burnley, Leeds, York, Bury, Leicester, King’s Lynn and Sheffield.